Women&#39;s Ballet Flat Shoe with One or More of an Integrated Heel Cup and an Integrated Arch Support

ABSTRACT

A women&#39;s ballet flat shoe includes: an upper, a midsole physically connected to the upper, and an insole physically connected to the midsole, the midsole comprising a heel cup, the heel cup thereby being integrated into the shoe, the heel cup configured to comfortably and securely grip a user&#39;s heel, wherein the heel cup comprises a first heel cup region having a lower hardness, the first heel cup region configured comfortably to hold the user&#39;s heel, wherein the heel cup further comprises a second heel cup region configured to contact the shoe&#39;s outsole, the heel cup further comprising a second heel cup region having a higher hardness.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application contains subject matter that is related to the subject matter of the following applications, which are assigned to the same assignee as this application. The below-listed applications are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety, apart from the limitations mentioned in this paragraph. Any incorporation by reference of documents below is limited such that no subject matter is incorporated that is contrary to the explicit disclosure herein. Any incorporation by reference of documents below is further limited such that no claims included in the documents are incorporated by reference herein. Any incorporation by reference of documents above is yet further limited such that any definitions, disavowals; disclaimers, and claims provided in the documents are not incorporated by reference herein unless expressly included herein:

“WOMEN'S BALLET FLAT SHOE WITH AN INTEGRATED HEEL CUP,” Design Patent Application by Ly, co-filed herewith.

“WOMEN'S BALLET FLAT SHOE WITH AN INTEGRATED HEEL CUP AND AN INTEGRATED ARCH SUPPORT,” Design Patent Application by Ly, co-filed herewith.

“WOMEN'S BALLET FLAT SHOE WITH AN INTEGRATED ARCH SUPPORT,” Design Patent Application by Ly, co-filed herewith.

SUMMARY

According to embodiments of the invention, a women's ballet flat shoe is provided comprising one or more of a three-dimensional, contoured, pre-molded, integrated arch support and an integrated heel cup stabilizer. For example, the arch support comprises a ¾-length arch support.

Embodiments of the invention provide a women's ballet flat shoe with an integrated heel cup.

Other embodiments of the invention provide a women's ballet flat shoe with an integrated heel cup and with an integrated arch support.

Further embodiments of the invention provide a women's ballet flat shoe with an integrated arch support.

A women's ballet flat shoe includes: an upper, a midsole physically connected to the upper, and an insole physically connected to the midsole, the midsole comprising a heel cup, the heel cup thereby being integrated into the shoe, the heel cup configured to comfortably and securely grip a user's heel, wherein the heel cup comprises a first heel cup region having a lower hardness, the first heel cup region configured comfortably to hold the user's heel, wherein the heel cup further comprises a second heel cup region configured to contact the shoe's outsole, the heel cup further comprising a second heel cup region having a higher hardness.

A women's ballet flat shoe includes: an upper, a midsole physically connected to the upper, and an insole physically connected to the midsole, the midsole comprising an arch support, the arch support thereby being integrated into the shoe, the arch support configured to comfortably and securely grip a user's heel, wherein the arch support comprises a first arch support region having a lower hardness, the first arch support region configured comfortably to hold the user's heel, wherein the arch support further comprises a second arch support region configured to contact the shoe's outsole, the arch support further comprising a second arch support region having a higher hardness.

A women's ballet flat shoe includes: an upper, a midsole physically connected to the upper, and an insole physically connected to the midsole, the midsole comprising a heel cup, the heel cup thereby being integrated into the shoe, the heel cup configured to comfortably and securely grip a user's heel, wherein the heel cup comprises a first heel cup region having a lower hardness, the first heel cup region configured comfortably to hold the user's heel, wherein the heel cup further comprises a second heel cup region configured to contact the shoe's outsole, the heel cup further comprising a second heel cup region having a higher hardness, the midsole further comprising an arch support, the arch support thereby being integrated into the shoe, the arch support configured to comfortably and securely grip a user's heel, wherein the arch support comprises a first arch support region having a lower hardness, the first arch support region configured comfortably to hold the user's heel, wherein the arch support further comprises a second arch support region configured to contact the shoe's outsole, the arch support further comprising a second arch support region having a higher hardness.

A women's ballet flat shoe includes: an upper, a midsole physically connected to the upper, and an insole physically connected to the midsole, the midsole comprising a heel cup, the heel cup thereby being integrated into the shoe, the heel cup configured to comfortably and securely grip a user's heel, wherein the heel cup comprises a first heel cup region having a lower hardness, the first heel cup region configured comfortably to hold the user's heel, wherein the heel cup further comprises a second heel cup region configured to contact the shoe's outsole, the heel cup further comprising a second heel cup region having a higher hardness, wherein the upper is constructed using a last, the last comprising a last heel that has a shape comprising an approximate negative imprint of the heel cup, so that the upper that is shaped using the last smoothly fits matching contours of the heel cup, the upper thereby smoothly mating with the heel cup, wherein the last comprises a last design specific to a user's exact foot size, wherein the first heel cup region comprises a hardness measurement between approximately 55 and approximately 65 on the Shore A hardness scale, wherein the second heel cup region comprises a hardness measurement between approximately 80 and approximately 90 on the Shore A hardness scale, wherein the ballet shoe is foldable.

A women's ballet flat shoe includes: an upper, a midsole physically connected to the upper, and an insole physically connected to the midsole, the midsole comprising a heel cup, the heel cup thereby being integrated into the shoe, the heel cup configured to comfortably and securely grip a user's heel, wherein the heel cup comprises a first heel cup region having a lower hardness, the first heel cup region configured comfortably to hold the user's heel, wherein the heel cup further comprises a second heel cup region configured to contact the shoe's outsole, the heel cup further comprising a second heel cup region having a higher hardness, the midsole further comprising an arch support, the arch support thereby being integrated into the shoe, the arch support configured to comfortably and securely grip a user's heel, wherein the arch support comprises a first arch support region having a lower hardness, the first arch support region configured comfortably to hold the user's heel, wherein the arch support further comprises a second arch support region configured to contact the shoe's outsole, the arch support further comprising a second arch support region having a higher hardness, wherein the upper is constructed using a last, the last comprising a last heel that has a shape comprising an approximate negative imprint of the heel cup, the last further comprising a last arch support that has a shape comprising an approximate negative imprint of the arch support, so that the upper that is shaped using the last smoothly fits matching contours of both the heel cup and the arch support, the upper thereby smoothly mating with both the heel cup and the arch support, wherein the last comprises a last design specific to a user's exact foot size, wherein the first heel cup region comprises a hardness measurement between approximately 55 and approximately 65 on the Shore A hardness scale, wherein the second heel cup region comprises a hardness measurement between approximately 80 and approximately 90 on the Shore A hardness scale, wherein the first arch support region comprises a hardness measurement between approximately 55 and approximately 65 on the Shore A hardness scale, wherein the second arch support region comprises a hardness measurement between approximately 80 and approximately 90 on the Shore A hardness scale.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings provide visual representations which will be used to more fully describe various representative embodiments and can be used by those skilled in the art to better understand the representative embodiments disclosed herein and their inherent advantages. In these drawings, like reference numerals identify corresponding elements.

FIGS. 1A-1C are a set of three drawings of a women's ballet flat shoe with a heel cup.

FIG. 2 is a perspective side view drawing of the women's ballet flat shoe with the heel cup.

FIG. 3 is a perspective side view drawing of the women's ballet flat shoe with the heel cup.

FIG. 4 is a drawing of a top view of the women's ballet flat shoe with the heel cup following completion of manufacture.

FIGS. 5A-5C are a set of three drawings of a women's ballet flat shoe with a heel cup and an arch support.

FIGS. 6A-6B are a set of two drawings of the women's ballet flat shoe with the heel cup and the arch support.

FIG. 7 is a perspective side view drawing of the women's ballet flat shoe with the heel cup and the arch support.

FIG. 8 is a drawing of a top view of the women's ballet flat shoe with the heel cup and the arch support following completion of manufacture.

FIGS. 9A-9C are a set of three drawings of a women's ballet flat shoe with an arch support.

FIGS. 10A-10B are a set of two drawings of the women's ballet flat shoe with the arch support.

FIG. 11 is a perspective side view drawing of the women's ballet flat shoe with the arch support.

FIG. 12 is a drawing of a top view of the women's ballet flat shoe with the arch support following completion of manufacture.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIGS. 1A-1C are a set of three drawings of a women's ballet flat shoe 105 with a heel cup.

FIG. 1A is a perspective side view drawing of a women's ballet flat shoe 105 with a heel cup. The shoe 105 comprises an upper 110, a midsole 120, and an outsole 130. The midsole 120 is to be physically attached to the upper 110. The outsole 130 is to be physically attached to the midsole 120. FIG. 1A depicts the women's ballet flat shoe 105 with the heel cup before assembly of the upper 110, the midsole 120, and the outsole 130. The shoe 105 comprises a toe end 131 where a user's toe (not shown) is located. The shoe 105 further comprises a heel end 132 where the user's heel (not shown) is located.

The upper 110 comprises a heel curve 133 at the heel end 132 of the shoe 105. The upper 110 further comprises an upper toe 134 at the toe end 131 of the shoe 105. A shape of the upper toe 134 can be adapted based on one or more of a seasonal trend, a style of interest to the user, and a shape of the toe of the user. For example, the toe shape comprises one or more of a pointed toe, a round toe, an oval toe, and another toe shape.

The upper 110 further comprises an upper liner 135A-135D. The upper liner 135A-135D runs continuously around an inner surface of the upper 110. For example, the upper liner 135A-135D comprises molded leather. For example, the upper liner 135A-135D is knit.

Proceeding from right to left, the upper liner 135A-135D comprises an upper liner ankle area 135A, an upper liner heel support area 135B, an upper liner toe support area 135C, and an upper liner front area 135D. The upper liner heel support area 135B is configured to support a heel (not shown) of the foot of the user. The upper liner toe support area 135C is configured to support one or more of toes (not shown), a metatarsal region (not shown), and an arch (not shown) of the foot of the user.

The upper liner ankle area 135A is physically attached to the heel curve 133. Preferably, but not necessarily, the upper liner ankle area 135A is stitched to the heel curve 133. Preferably, but not necessarily, the upper liner ankle area 135A is stitched to the heel curve 133 using one or more of ribbon binding trim, a stitched seam, and a seam that is both stitched and folded. The upper liner front area 135D is physically attached to the upper toe 134. Preferably, but not necessarily, the upper liner front area 135D is stitched to the upper toe 134. Preferably, but not necessarily, the upper liner front area 135D is stitched to the upper toe 134 using one or more of ribbon binding trim, a stitched seam, and a seam that is both stitched and folded.

The upper 110 further comprises a topline 137 configured to hold a user's foot (not shown) comfortably but securely. The upper 110 further comprises a sock liner 138. For example, one or more of the upper liner heel support area 135B and the upper liner toe support area 135C comprises the sock liner 138. Preferably, but not necessarily, both the upper liner heel support area 135B and the upper liner toe support area 135C comprise the sock liner 138. For example, the one or more of the upper liner heel support area 135B and the upper liner toe support area 135C comprises a pre-molded sock liner 138. Preferably, but not necessarily, both the upper liner heel support area 135B and the upper liner toe support area 135C comprise the pre-molded sock liner 138. The sock liner 138 forms a lower side of the upper 110. For example, the sock liner 138 is stitched to one or more of the upper liner heel support area 135B and the upper liner toe support area 135C. Preferably, but not necessarily, the sock liner 138 is stitched to both the upper liner heel support area 135B and the upper liner toe support area 135C. For example, the sock liner 138 is stitched to the one or more of the upper liner heel support area 135B and the upper liner toe support area 135C using a reverse stitched seam, also known as the Sacchetto construction method. As depicted, the sock liner 138 is stitched to the one or more of the upper liner heel support area 135B and the upper liner toe support area 135C using the Sacchetto construction method.

The upper 110 further comprises a seam 139. The seam 139 runs along a circumference of one or more of the upper liner heel support area 135B and the upper liner toe support area 135C. Preferably, but not necessarily, and as depicted, the seam 139 runs along a circumference of both the upper liner heel support area 135B and the upper liner toe support area 135C. For example, the seam 139 comprises a reversed stitched seam, also known as the Sacchetto construction method.

One or more of the upper liner toe support area 135C and the midsole 120 are configured to ensure a smooth fit on assembly between the upper liner toe support area 135C and the midsole 120. Preferably, but not necessarily, both the upper liner toe support area 135C and the midsole 120 are configured to ensure a smooth fit on assembly between the upper liner toe support area 135C and the midsole 120.

Preferably, but not necessarily, the upper 110 and the midsole 120 are configured to ensure a smooth fit on assembly between the upper 110 and the midsole 120. For example, the upper 110 comprises one or more of leather and a synthetic material. For example, the synthetic material is one or more of pliable and breathable. For example, the synthetic material comprises polyester.

The midsole 120 comprises a heel cup 140 configured to support a user's heel (not shown). The midsole 120 further comprises a toe pad 146 configured to support a user's toes (not shown) and portions of the user's feet adjacent to the user's toes (not shown). The heel cup 140 comprises a heel pad 150 configured to support a user's heel (not shown). The heel cup 140 further comprises a heel cup beveled end 151. For example, the toe pad 146 comprises a foam cushion. The toe pad 146 comprises a toe pad upper surface 152. The toe pad 146 further comprises a toe pad beveled end 153. The toe shape can be changed without a need to change a shape of the heel cup 140.

One or more of the upper liner heel support area 135B and the sock liner 138 is contoured to match contours of the heel cup 140. One or more of the upper liner toe support area 135C and the sock liner 138 is contoured to match contours of the toe pad 146.

When the shoe 105 is assembled, the heel cup 140 will contact and be fastened to the toe pad 146. Preferably, but not necessarily, when the shoe 105 is assembled, the heel cup 140 will be glued to the toe pad 146. When the shoe 105 is assembled, the heel cup beveled end 151 will contact and be fastened to the toe pad beveled end 153. The heel cup beveled end 151 and the toe pad beveled end 153 are constructed so as to fit smoothly together upon assembly of the shoe 105. For example, and as depicted, the heel cup beveled end 151 comprises a diagonal bevel that fits smoothly together with a complementary diagonal bevel comprised in the toe pad beveled end 153. Preferably, but not necessarily, when the shoe 105 is assembled, the heel cup beveled end 151 will be glued to the toe pad beveled end 153.

When the shoe 105 is assembled, an upper side of the heel pad 150 will contact and be fastened to a lower side of the upper liner heel support area 135B. Preferably, but not necessarily, when the shoe 105 is assembled, the upper side of the heel pad 150 will be glued to the lower side of the upper liner heel support area 135B. When the shoe 105 is assembled, an upper side of the toe pad upper surface 152 also will contact and be fastened to a lower side of the upper liner toe support area 135C. Preferably, but not necessarily, when the shoe 105 is assembled, the upper side of the toe pad upper surface 152 will be glued to the lower side of the upper liner toe support area 135C.

The midsole 120 further comprises a heel shock pad 154. The heel shock pad 154 is attachable to a lower side of the heel cup 140. The heel shock pad 154 is configured to safeguard the heel of the user from shocks as the user moves. For example, the heel shock pad 154 comprises foam. When the shoe 105 is assembled, the heel shock pad 154 will contact and be glued to the lower side of the heel cup 140.

The outsole 130 comprises an outsole heel 160, an outsole toe area 170, and an outsole upper surface 172. One or more of the outsole heel 160 and the heel cup 140 are configured to ensure a smooth fit on assembly between the outsole heel 160 and the heel cup 140. Preferably, but not necessarily, both the outsole heel 160 and the heel cup 140 are configured to ensure a smooth fit on assembly between the outsole heel 160 and the heel cup 140. One or more of the outsole toe area 170 and the toe pad 146 are configured to ensure a smooth fit on assembly between of the outsole toe area 170 and the toe pad 146. Preferably, but not necessarily, both the outsole toe area 170 and the toe pad 146 are configured to ensure a smooth fit on assembly between of the outsole toe area 170 and the toe pad 146. When the shoe 105 is assembled, an upper side of the outsole heel 160 will contact and be fastened to a lower side of the heel cup 140. Preferably, but not necessarily, when the shoe 105 is assembled, the upper side of the outsole heel 160 will be glued to the lower side of the heel cup 140. When the shoe 105 is assembled, an upper side of the outsole toe 170 will contact and be fastened to a lower side of the toe pad 146. Preferably, but not necessarily, when the shoe 105 is assembled, the outsole toe 170 will be glued to the toe pad 146. The outsole 130 comprises one or more of man-made materials and natural materials. For example, the natural materials comprise one or more of leather and rubber.

FIG. 1A further depicts a last 175 usable for constructing the women's ballet flat shoe 105 with the heel cup 140.

The last 175 comprises a last heel 180 located at a heel position on the last 175, a last bottom front 182 located at a bottom front position on the last 175, a last heel curve 183 located at an ankle position on the last 175, a last toe 185 locates at a toe position on the last 175, and a last topline edge 190 located along a top edge of the last 175. The last heel 180 is shaped to match contours of the heel cup 140 and therefore to mate smoothly with the heel cup 140. Preferably, but not necessarily, the last 175 comprises a last design specific to a user's exact foot size. Preferably, but not necessarily, and as depicted, the last heel 180 has a shape comprising an approximate negative imprint of the heel cup 140. Accordingly, the upper 110 that is shaped using the last 175 smoothly fits matching contours of the heel cup 140, the upper 110 thereby smoothly mating with the heel cup 140.

The last bottom front 182 is shaped to match contours of the toe pad 146 and therefore to mate smoothly with the toe pad 146. In manufacturing the women's ballet flat shoe 105 with the heel cup 140, the last 175 is placed inside the upper 110. The last heel curve 183 contacts and shapes the heel curve 133. Along the same lines, the last toe 185 contacts and shapes the upper toe 134. The upper 110 is pulled over the last 175 and edges of the upper 110 are joined together, forming the topline 137. Preferably, but not necessarily, the edges of the upper 110 are stitched together to form the topline 137.

After the last 175 is placed inside the upper 110, an upper side of the midsole 120 is physically attached to a lower side of the upper 110, creating a heel cup upper assembly 194. For example, outer edges of the upper 110 are pulled around the midsole 120 and lashed to the midsole 120. For example, the upper side of the midsole 120 is glued to the lower side of the upper 110.

FIGS. 1B-1C are a pair of drawings of a heel cup 140 usable with a women's ballet flat shoe 105.

FIG. 1B is a perspective side view drawing of the heel cup 140. The heel cup 140 again comprises the heel pad 150 and the heel cup beveled end 151. Also shown again is the heel end 132.

Preferably, but not necessarily, the heel cup 140 further comprises a plurality of heel cup regions 195, 196 having different hardness measurements. For example, as depicted, the heel cup 140 comprises a first heel cup region 195 configured comfortably to contact a user's heel (not shown). Accordingly, to enhance soft comfort, the first heel cup region 195 comprises a hardness measurement between approximately 55 and approximately 65 on the Shore A hardness scale. For example, as depicted, the heel cup 140 further comprises a second heel cup region 196 configured to contact the outsole (not shown in FIG. 1B; item 130 in FIG. 1A) and through the outsole (not shown in FIG. 1B; item 130 in FIG. 1A), to contact the earth (not shown). Accordingly, to prevent deformation, the second heel cup region 196 comprises a hardness measurement between approximately 80 and approximately 90 on the Shore A hardness scale.

The heel cup 140 further comprises a heel cup heel end height 197 at the heel end 132. The heel cup 140 further comprises a heel cup depth 198. The heel cup 140 further comprises a heel cup beveled end height 199 at the heel cup beveled end 151. For example, the heel cup 140 for a United States women's shoe size of 7 comprises a heel cup end height 197 at the heel end 132 of approximately 15.0 millimeters (mm). For example, the heel cup 140 for a United States women's shoe size of 7 comprises a heel cup depth 198 at the heel cup beveled end 151 of approximately 10.0 mm. For example, the heel cup 140 for a United States women's shoe size of 7 comprises a heel cup beveled end height 199 at the heel cup beveled end 151 of approximately 1.5 mm. Not visible in this figure is the heel shock pad (item 154 in FIGS. 1A and 1C). A representative length of the heel cup 140 is approximately 87 mm. A representative length of the heel cup beveled end 151 is approximately 12 mm.

FIG. 1C is a non-perspective drawing showing an end view from the heel end 132 of the heel cup 140. The heel cup 140 again comprises the heel pad 150, the heel shock pad 154, the first heel cup region 195, the second heel cup region 196, the heel cup heel end height 197, and the heel cup depth 198. Not visible in this figure are the heel cup beveled end (item 151 in FIGS. 1A-1B, 2, and 3) and the toe pad beveled end (item 153 in FIGS. 1A, 2, and 3).

The last 175 remains in place inside the upper 110 while the upper 110 is joined to the midsole 120 and then also while the midsole 120 is joined to the outsole 130. After the upper 110, the midsole 120, and the outsole 130 have been joined together to form the shoe 105, the last 175 is removed from the upper 110. For clarity, however, FIGS. 2 and 3 show the upper 110 with the last 175 not included so that details of the shoe 105 including details of the upper 110, the midsole 120, and the outsole 130 can more easily be seen.

FIG. 2 is a perspective side view drawing of a women's ballet flat shoe 105 with the heel cup 140. FIG. 2 depicts the women's ballet flat shoe 105 with the heel cup 140 after the midsole 120 has been physically attached to the upper 110. The shoe 105 again comprises the heel cup upper assembly 194 and the outsole 130. The heel cup upper assembly 194 again comprises the upper 110 and the midsole 120. The shoe 105 again comprises the toe end 131. The shoe 105 again further comprises the heel end 132.

The upper 110 again comprises the heel curve 133 at the heel end 132 of the shoe 105. The upper 110 again further comprises the upper toe 134 at the toe end 131 of the shoe 105. The upper 110 again further comprises the upper liner 135A-135D. Proceeding from right to left, the upper liner 135A-135D again comprises the upper liner ankle area 135A, the upper liner heel support area 135B, the upper liner toe support area 135C, and the upper liner front area 135D. The upper liner ankle area 135A is again physically attached to the heel curve 133. The upper liner 135A-135D again runs continuously around an inner surface of the upper 110.

The midsole 120 again comprises the heel cup 140 and the toe pad 146. The toe pad 146 again comprises the toe pad upper surface 152 and the toe pad beveled end 153. The heel cup 140 again in turn comprises the heel pad (item 150 in FIG. 1A; not visible in this figure) and the heel cup beveled end 151. Now that the midsole 120 has been assembled, the heel cup beveled end 151 contacts and is fastened to the toe pad beveled end 153, completing assembly of the midsole 120. Preferably, but not necessarily, the heel cup beveled end 151 is glued to the toe pad beveled end 153.

Now that the midsole 120 and the upper 110 have been fastened together, the heel cup 140 contacts and is fastened to the toe pad 146. Preferably, but not necessarily, the heel cup 140 is glued to the toe pad 146. Now that the midsole 120 and the upper 110 have been fastened together, an upper side of the heel pad (item 150 in FIG. 1A; not visible in this figure) contacts and is fastened to a lower side of the upper liner heel support area 135B. Preferably, but not necessarily, the upper side of the heel pad (item 150 in FIG. 1A; not visible in this figure) is glued to the lower side of the upper liner heel support area 135B. Now that the midsole 120 and the upper 110 have been fastened together, an upper side of the toe pad upper surface (item 152 in FIG. 1A; not visible in this figure) contacts and is fastened to a lower side of the upper liner toe support area 135C. Preferably, but not necessarily, the upper side of the toe pad upper surface (item 152 in FIG. 1A; not visible in this figure) is glued to the lower side of the upper liner toe support area 135C.

The midsole 120 again further comprises the heel shock pad 154. The heel shock pad 154 is now attached to the lower side of the heel cup 140. Preferably, but not necessarily, the heel shock pad 154 is glued to the lower side of the heel cup 140.

The outsole 130 again comprises the outsole heel 160, the outsole toe area 170, and the outsole upper surface 172. An upper side of the outsole 130 is physically attached to a lower side of the midsole 120, creating the finished shoe 105. For example, the upper side of the outsole 130 is glued to the lower side of the midsole 120.

FIG. 3 is a perspective side view drawing of a women's ballet flat shoe 105 with the heel cup item 140 sandwiched between the upper 110 and the outsole 130. FIG. 3 depicts the women's ballet flat shoe 105 with the heel cup 140 after the outsole 130 has been physically attached to the midsole 120, completing construction of the shoe 105. The shoe 105 again comprises the heel cup upper assembly 194 and the outsole 130. The heel cup upper assembly 194 again comprises the upper 110 and the midsole 120. The shoe 105 again comprises the toe end 131. The shoe 105 again further comprises the heel end 132.

The upper 110 again comprises the heel curve 133 at the heel end 132 of the shoe 105. The upper 110 again further comprises the upper toe 134 at the toe end 131 of the shoe 105. The upper 110 again further comprises the upper liner 135A-135D. Proceeding from right to left, the upper liner 135A-135D again comprises the upper liner ankle area 135A, the upper liner heel support area 135B, the upper liner toe support area 135C, and the upper liner front area 135D. The upper liner ankle area 135A is again physically attached to the heel curve 133. The upper liner front area 135D is again physically attached to the upper toe 134. The upper liner 135A-135D again runs continuously around an inner surface of the upper 110.

The midsole 120 again comprises the heel cup 140 and the toe pad 146. The toe pad 146 again comprises the toe pad upper surface 152. Now that the midsole 120 and the upper 110 have been fastened together, the heel cup 140 contacts and is fastened to the toe pad 146. Now that the midsole 120 and the upper 110 have been fastened together, the heel pad 150 contacts and is fastened to the upper liner heel support area 135B. Now that the midsole 120 and the upper 110 have been fastened together, the toe pad upper surface 152 contacts and is fastened to the upper liner heel support area 135B.

The midsole 120 again further comprises the heel cup beveled end 151 and the toe pad 153.

The outsole 130 again comprises the outsole heel 160 and the outsole toe area 170. Now that the outsole 130 and the midsole 120 have been fastened together, the outsole upper surface (item 172 in FIGS. 1A and 2; not visible in this figure) contacts and is fastened to the heel pad (item 150 in FIG. 1A; not visible in this figure) and to the toe pad 146.

Now that the assembly of the shoe 105 has been completed, not visible in FIG. 3 are the heel pad (item 150 in FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C; not visible in this figure), the toe pad upper surface (item 152 in FIG. 1A; not visible in this figure) and the heel shock pad (item 154 in FIGS. 1A and 2; not visible in this figure).

FIG. 4 is a drawing of a top view of the women's ballet flat shoe 105 with the heel cup 140 following completion of manufacture. The shoe 105 again further comprises the upper liner heel support area 135B, the upper liner toe support area 135C, the topline 137, the toe pad 146, the heel cup beveled end 151, and the toe pad beveled end 153.

As depicted, the shoe 105 further comprises an optional decorative bow 410. This ballet shoe 105 is foldable for easy transport. For example, the ballet shoe 105 is foldable across folding line 420. As depicted, the folding line 420 runs approximately perpendicular to a lengthwise axis of the shoe 105. As depicted, the folding line 420 bisects the shoe into two sections of approximately equal size.

FIGS. 5A-5C are a set of three drawings of a women's ballet flat shoe 505 with a heel cup and an arch support.

FIG. 5A is a perspective side view drawing of a women's ballet flat shoe 505 with a heel cup and an arch support. The shoe 505 comprises an upper 510, a midsole 520, and an outsole 530. The midsole 520 is to be physically attached to the upper 510. The outsole 530 is to be physically attached to the midsole 520. FIG. 5A depicts the women's ballet flat shoe 505 with the heel cup and the arch support before assembly of the upper 510, the midsole 520, and the outsole 530. The shoe 505 comprises a toe end 531 where a user's toe (not shown) is located. The shoe 505 further comprises a heel end 532 where the user's heel (not shown) is located.

The upper 510 comprises a heel curve 533 at the heel end 532 of the shoe 505. The upper 510 further comprises an upper toe 534 at the toe end 531 of the shoe 505. A shape of the upper toe 534 can be adapted based on one or more of a seasonal trend, a style of interest to the user, and a shape of the toe of the user. For example, the toe shape comprises one or more of a pointed toe, a round toe, an oval toe, and another toe shape.

The upper 510 further comprises an upper liner 535A-535E. The upper liner 535A-535E runs continuously around an inner surface of the upper 510. For example, the upper liner 535A-535E comprises molded leather. For example, the upper liner 535A-535E is knit.

Proceeding from right to left, the upper liner 535A-535E comprises an upper liner ankle area 535A, an upper liner heel support area 535B, an upper liner arch support area 535C, an upper liner toe support area 535D, and an upper liner front area 535E. The upper liner heel support area 535B is configured to support a heel (not shown) of the foot of the user. The upper liner arch support area 535C is configured to support an arch (not shown) of the foot of the user. The upper liner toe support area 535D is configured to support one or more of toes (not shown) and a metatarsal region (not shown) of the foot of the user.

The upper liner ankle area 535A is physically attached to the heel curve 533. Preferably, but not necessarily, the upper liner ankle area 535A is stitched to the heel curve 533. Preferably, but not necessarily, the upper liner ankle area 535A is stitched to the heel curve 533 using one or more of ribbon binding trim, a stitched seam, and a seam that is both stitched and folded. The upper liner front area 535E is physically attached to the upper toe 534. Preferably, but not necessarily, the upper liner front area 535E is stitched to the upper toe 534. Preferably, but not necessarily, the upper liner front area 535E is stitched to the upper toe 534 using one or more of ribbon binding trim, a stitched seam, and a seam that is both stitched and folded.

The upper 510 further comprises a topline 537 configured to hold a user's foot (not shown) comfortably but securely. The upper 510 further comprises a sock liner 538. For example, one or more of the upper liner heel support area 535B, the upper liner arch support area 535C, and the upper liner toe support area 535D comprises the sock liner 538. For example, the one or more of the upper liner heel support area 535B, the upper liner arch support area 535C, and the upper liner toe support area 535D comprises a pre-molded sock liner 538. Preferably, but not necessarily, For example, the upper liner heel support area 535B, the upper liner arch support area 535C, and the upper liner toe support area 535D comprise the pre-molded sock liner 538. The sock liner 538 forms a lower side of the upper 510. For example, the sock liner 538 is stitched to one or more of the upper liner heel support area 535B, the upper liner arch support area 535C, and the upper liner toe support area 535D. Preferably, but not necessarily, the sock liner 538 is stitched to each of the upper liner heel support area 535B, the upper liner arch support area 535C, and the upper liner toe support area 535D. For example, the sock liner 538 is stitched to the one or more of the upper liner heel support area 535B, the upper liner arch support area 535C, and the upper liner toe support area 535D using a reverse stitched seam, also known as the Sacchetto construction method. As depicted, the sock liner 538 is stitched to the one or more of the upper liner heel support area 535B, the upper liner arch support area 535C, and the upper liner toe support area 535D using the Sacchetto construction method.

The upper 510 further comprises a seam 539. The seam 539 runs along a circumference of one or more of the upper liner heel support area 535B, the upper liner arch support area 535C, and the upper liner toe support area 535D. Preferably, but not necessarily, and as depicted, the seam 539 runs along a circumference of the upper liner heel support area 535B, the upper liner arch support area 535C, and the upper liner toe support area 535D. For example, the seam 539 comprises one or more of a reversed stitched seam, also known as the Sacchetto construction method.

One or more of the upper liner heel support area 535B and the midsole 520 are configured to ensure a smooth fit on assembly between the upper liner heel support area 535B and the midsole 520. One or more of the upper liner arch support area 535C and the midsole 520 are configured to ensure a smooth fit on assembly between the upper liner arch support area 535C and the midsole 520. One or more of the upper liner toe support area 535D and the midsole 520 are configured to ensure a smooth fit on assembly between the upper liner toe support area 535D and the midsole 520.

Preferably, but not necessarily, the upper 510 and the midsole 520 are configured to ensure a smooth fit on assembly between the upper 510 and the midsole 520. For example, the upper 510 comprises one or more of leather and a synthetic material. For example, the synthetic material is one or more of pliable and breathable. For example, the synthetic material comprises polyester.

The midsole 520 comprises a heel cup 540 configured to support a user's heel (not shown). The midsole 520 further comprises an arch support 541 configured to support a user's arch (not shown). The midsole 520 further comprises a toe pad 546 configured to support a user's toes (not shown) and portions of the user's feet adjacent to the user's toes (not shown). The heel cup 540 comprises a heel pad 550A configured to support a user's heel (not shown). The arch support 541 comprises an arch pad 550B configured to support a user's arch (not shown). The arch support 541 further comprises an arch support beveled end 551. For example, the toe pad 546 comprises a foam cushion. The toe pad 546 comprises a toe pad upper surface 552. The toe pad 546 further comprises a toe pad beveled end 553. The toe shape can be changed without a need to change a shape of the heel cup 540.

One or more of the upper liner heel support area 535B and the sock liner 538 is contoured to match contours of the heel cup 540. One or more of the arch support area 535C and the sock liner 538 is contoured to match contours of the arch support 541. One or more of the upper liner toe support area 535D and the sock liner 538 is contoured to match contours of the toe pad 546. When the shoe 505 is assembled, the heel cup 540 will contact and be fastened to the toe pad 546. Preferably, but not necessarily, when the shoe 505 is assembled, the heel cup 540 will be glued to the toe pad 546.

When the shoe 505 is assembled, the arch support beveled end 551 will contact and be fastened to the toe pad beveled end 553. The arch support beveled end 551 and the toe pad beveled end 553 are constructed so as to fit smoothly together upon assembly of the shoe 505. For example, and as depicted, the arch support beveled end 551 comprises a diagonal bevel that fits smoothly together with a complementary diagonal bevel comprised in the toe pad beveled end 553. Preferably, but not necessarily, when the shoe 505 is assembled, the arch support beveled end 551 will be glued to the toe pad beveled end 553.

When the shoe 505 is assembled, an upper side of the heel pad 550A will contact and be fastened to a lower side of the upper liner heel area 535B. Preferably, but not necessarily, when the shoe 505 is assembled, the upper side of the heel pad 550A will be glued to the lower side of the upper liner heel area 535B. When the shoe 505 is assembled, an upper side of the arch pad 550B will contact and be fastened to a lower side of the upper liner arch support area 535C. Preferably, but not necessarily, when the shoe 505 is assembled, the upper side of the arch pad 550B will be glued to the lower side of the upper liner arch support area 535C. When the shoe 505 is assembled, an upper side of the toe pad upper surface 552 will contact and be fastened to a lower side of the upper liner toe support area 535D. Preferably, but not necessarily, when the shoe 505 is assembled, the upper side of the toe pad upper surface 552 will be glued to the lower side of the upper liner toe support area 535D.

The midsole 520 further comprises a heel shock pad 554. The heel shock pad 554 is attachable to a lower side of the heel cup 540. The heel shock pad 554 is configured to safeguard the heel of the user from shocks as the user moves. For example, the heel shock pad 554 comprises foam. When the shoe 505 is assembled, the heel shock pad 554 will contact and be glued to the lower side of the heel cup 540.

The outsole 530 comprises an outsole heel 560, an extended heel toplift 565 configured to support the arch support 540, an outsole lower side 567, an outsole toe area 570, and an outsole upper surface 572. One or more of the outsole heel 560 and the heel cup 540 are configured to ensure a smooth fit on assembly between the outsole heel 560 and the heel cup 540. Preferably, but not necessarily, both the outsole heel 560 and the heel cup 540 are configured to ensure a smooth fit on assembly between the outsole heel 560 and the heel cup 540. One or more of the outsole toe area 570 and the toe pad 546 are configured to ensure a smooth fit on assembly between of the outsole toe area 570 and the toe pad 546. Preferably, but not necessarily, both the outsole toe area 570 and the toe pad 546 are configured to ensure a smooth fit on assembly between of the outsole toe area 570 and the toe pad 546. When the shoe 505 is assembled, the outsole heel 560 will contact and be fastened to the heel cup 540. Preferably, but not necessarily, when the shoe 505 is assembled, the outsole heel 560 will be glued to the heel cup 540. When the shoe 505 is assembled, the outsole toe 570 will contact and be fastened to the toe pad 546. Preferably, but not necessarily, when the shoe 505 is assembled, the outsole toe 570 will be glued to the toe pad 546. The outsole 530 comprises one or more of man-made materials and natural materials. For example, the natural materials comprise one or more of leather and rubber.

FIG. 5A further depicts a last 575 usable for constructing the women's ballet flat shoe 505 with the heel cup 540. The last 575 comprises a last heel 580 located at a heel position on the last 575, a last arch support 581 located at an arch position on the last 575, a last bottom front 582 located at a bottom front position on the last 575, a last heel curve 583 located at an ankle position on the last 575, a last toe 585 locates at a toe position on the last 575, and a last topline edge 590 located along a top edge of the last 575. The last heel 580 is shaped to match contours of the heel cup 540 and therefore to mate smoothly with the heel cup 540. The last arch support 581 is shaped to match contours of the arch support 541 and therefore to mate smoothly with the arch support. The last bottom front 582 is shaped to match contours of the toe pad 546 and therefore to mate smoothly with the toe pad 546. Preferably, but not necessarily, the last 575 comprises a last design specific to a user's exact foot size. Preferably, but not necessarily, and as depicted, the last heel 580 has a shape comprising an approximate negative imprint of the heel cup 540. Preferably, but not necessarily, the last arch support 581 has a shape comprising an approximate negative imprint of the arch support 541. Accordingly, the upper 510 that is shaped using the last 575 smoothly fits matching contours of the heel cup 540, the upper 510 thereby smoothly mating with the heel cup 540. Accordingly, the upper 510 that is shaped using the last 575 smoothly fits matching contours of the arch support 541, the upper 510 thereby smoothly mating with the arch support 541. Accordingly, the upper 510 that is shaped using the last 575 smoothly fits matching contours of both the heel cup 540 and the arch support 541, the upper 510 thereby smoothly mating with both the heel cup 540 and the arch support 541.

In manufacturing the women's ballet flat shoe 505 with the heel cup 540, the last 575 is placed inside the upper 510. The last heel curve 583 contacts and shapes the heel curve 533. Along the same lines, the last toe 585 contacts and shapes the upper toe 534. The upper 510 is pulled over the last 575 and edges of the upper 510 are joined together, forming the topline 537. Preferably, but not necessarily, the edges of the upper 510 are stitched together to form the topline 537.

After the last 575 is placed inside the upper 510, the midsole 520 is physically attached to the upper 510, creating a heel cup upper assembly 594. For example, outer edges of the upper 510 are pulled around the midsole 520 and lashed to the midsole 520. For example, the midsole 520 is glued to the upper 510.

FIG. 5B is a perspective side view drawing of the heel cup 540 and the arch support 541 usable with the women's ballet flat shoe 505. The heel cup 540 and the arch support 541 again comprise the heel pad 550A. The arch support 541 again comprises the arch support beveled end 551. Also shown again is the heel end 532.

Preferably, but not necessarily, the heel cup 540 further comprises a plurality of heel cup regions 595, 596 having different hardness measurements. For example, as depicted, the heel cup 540 comprises a first heel cup region 595 configured comfortably to contact a user's heel (not shown). Accordingly, to enhance soft comfort, the first heel cup region 595 comprises a hardness measurement between approximately 55 and approximately 65 on the Shore A hardness scale. For example, as depicted, the heel cup 540 further comprises a second heel cup region 596 configured to contact the outsole (not shown in FIG. 5B; item 530 in FIG. 5A) and through the outsole (not shown in FIG. 5B; item 530 in FIG. 5A), to contact the earth (not shown). Accordingly, to prevent deformation, the second heel cup region 596 comprises a hardness measurement between approximately 80 and approximately 90 on the Shore A hardness scale.

The heel cup 540 further comprises a heel cup heel end height 597 at the heel end 532. The heel cup 540 further comprises a heel cup depth 598. The heel cup 540 further comprises a heel cup beveled end height 599 at the arch support beveled end 551. For example, the heel cup 540 for a United States women's shoe size of 7 comprises a heel cup end height 597 at the heel end 532 of approximately 15.0 millimeters (mm). For example, the heel cup 540 for a United States women's shoe size of 7 comprises a heel cup depth 598 at the arch support beveled end 551 of approximately 10.0 mm. For example, the heel cup 540 for a United States women's shoe size of 7 comprises a heel cup beveled end height 599 at the arch support beveled end 551 of approximately 1.5 mm. A representative length of the heel cup 540 is approximately 85 mm. A representative length of the arch support beveled end 551 is approximately 10 mm.

Not visible in this figure are the heel shock pad (item 554 in FIGS. 5A and 5C) and the extended heel toplift (item 565 in FIGS. 5A,6A and 6B).

FIG. 5C is a non-perspective drawing showing an end view from the heel end 532 of the heel cup 540. The heel cup 540 again comprises the heel pad 550A, the heel shock pad 554, the first heel cup region 595, the second heel cup region 596, the heel cup heel end height 597, and the heel cup depth 598. Not visible in this figure are the arch support beveled end (item 551 in FIGS. 5A-5B), the toe pad upper surface (item 552 in FIG. 5A), and the arch support beveled end (item 553 in FIGS. 5A, 6A, and 7).

The last 575 remains in place inside the upper 510 while the upper 510 is joined to the midsole 520 and then also while the midsole 520 is joined to the outsole 530. After the upper 510, the midsole 520, and the outsole 530 have been joined together to form the shoe 505, the last 575 is removed from the upper 510. For clarity, however, FIGS. 6A and 7 show the upper 510 with the last 575 not included so that details of the shoe 505 including details of the upper 510, the midsole 520, and the outsole 530 can more easily be seen.

FIGS. 6A-6B are a set of two drawings of the women's ballet flat shoe 505 with the heel cup 540, and the arch support 541.

FIG. 6A is a perspective side view drawing of a women's ballet flat shoe 505 with the heel cup 540 and the arch support 541. FIG. 6A depicts the women's ballet flat shoe 505 with the heel cup 540 and the arch support 541 after the midsole 520 has been physically attached to the upper 510. The shoe 505 again comprises the heel cup upper assembly 594 and the outsole 530. The heel cup upper assembly 594 again comprises the upper 510 and the midsole 520. The shoe 505 again comprises the toe end 531. The shoe 505 again further comprises the heel end 532.

The upper 510 again comprises the heel curve 533 at the heel end 532 of the shoe 505. The upper 510 again further comprises the upper toe 534 at the toe end 531 of the shoe 505. The upper 510 again further comprises the upper liner 535A-535E. Proceeding from right to left, the upper liner 535A-535E again comprises the upper liner ankle area 535A, the upper liner heel support area 535B, the upper liner arch support area 535C, the upper toe support area 535D, and the upper liner front area 535E. The upper liner ankle area 535A is again physically attached to the heel curve 533. The upper liner front area 535E is again physically attached to the upper toe 534. The upper liner 535A-535E again runs continuously around an inner surface of the upper 510.

The midsole 520 again comprises the heel cup 540, the arch support 541, and the toe pad 546. The arch support 541 again comprises the arch support beveled end 551. The toe pad 546 again comprises the toe pad upper surface 552 and the toe pad beveled end 553. The heel cup 540 again in turn comprises the heel pad 550A. Now that the midsole 520 has been assembled, the arch support beveled end 551 contacts and is fastened to the toe pad beveled end 553, completing assembly of the midsole 520. Preferably, but not necessarily, the arch support beveled end 551 is glued to the toe pad beveled end 553.

Now that the midsole 520 and the upper 510 have been fastened together, the heel pad (item 550A in FIG. 5A; not visible in this figure) contacts and is fastened to the upper liner heel support area 535B. Preferably, but not necessarily, the heel pad (item 550A in FIG. 5A; not visible in this figure) is glued to the upper liner heel support area 535B. Now that the midsole 520 and the upper 510 have been fastened together, an upper side of the arch pad (item 550B in FIG. 5A; not visible in this figure) contacts and is fastened to a lower side of the upper liner arch support area 535C. Preferably, but not necessarily, the upper side of the arch pad (item 550B in FIG. 5A; not visible in this figure) is glued to a lower side of the upper liner arch support area 535C. Now that the midsole 520 and the upper 510 have been fastened together, an upper side of the toe pad upper surface 552 contacts and is fastened to a lower side of the upper liner toe support area 535D. Now that the midsole 520 and the upper 510 have been fastened together, the extended heel toplift 565. Preferably, but not necessarily, the upper side of the toe pad upper surface 552 is glued to the lower side of the upper liner toe support area 535D.

The midsole 520 again further comprises the heel shock pad 554. The heel shock pad 554 is now attached to the lower side of the heel cup 540. Preferably, but not necessarily, the heel shock pad 554 is glued to the lower side of the heel cup 540.

The outsole 530 again comprises the outsole heel 560, the extended heel toplift 565, the outsole lower side 567, the outsole toe area 570, and the outsole upper surface 572. The outsole 530 is physically attached to the midsole 520, creating the finished shoe 505. For example, the outsole 530 is glued to the midsole 520.

FIG. 6B is a bottom view drawing of the outsole 530 of the women's ballet flat shoe with the heel cup (item 540 in FIGS. 5A-5C, 6A, 7 and 8; not shown in this figure) and the arch support (item 541 in FIGS. 5A-5B; not shown in this figure). The outsole 530 again comprises the extended heel toplift 565, and the outsole lower side 567.

FIG. 7 is a perspective side view drawing of a women's ballet flat shoe 505 with the heel cup 540 and the arch support (item 541 in FIGS. 5A-5B and 6A; not shown in this figure). FIG. 7 depicts the women's ballet flat shoe 505 with the heel cup 540 and the arch support (item 541 in FIGS. 5A-5B and 6A; not shown in this figure) after the outsole 530 has been physically attached to the midsole 520, completing construction of the shoe 505. The shoe 505 again comprises the heel cup upper assembly 594 and the outsole 530. The heel cup upper assembly 594 again comprises the upper 510 and the midsole 520. The shoe 505 again comprises the toe end 531. The shoe 505 again further comprises the heel end 532.

The upper 510 again comprises the heel curve 533 at the heel end 532 of the shoe 505. The upper 510 again further comprises the upper toe 534 at the toe end 531 of the shoe 505. The upper 510 again further comprises the upper liner 535A-535E. Proceeding from right to left, the upper liner 535A-535E again comprises the upper liner ankle area 535A, the upper liner heel support area 535B, the upper liner arch support area 535C, the upper liner toe support area 535D, and the upper liner front area 535E. The upper liner ankle area 535A is again physically attached to the heel curve 533. The upper liner front area 535E is again physically attached to the upper toe 534. The upper liner 535A-535E again runs continuously around an inner surface of the upper 510.

The midsole 520 again comprises the heel cup 540, the arch support 541, and the toe pad 546. The toe pad 546 again comprises the toe pad upper surface 552.

The midsole 520 again further comprises the arch support beveled end 551 and the toe pad beveled end 553.

The outsole 530 again comprises the outsole heel 560 and the outsole toe area 570. Now that the outsole 530 and the midsole 520 have been fastened together, the outsole upper surface (item 572 in FIGS. 5A and 6A; not visible in this figure) contacts and is fastened to the heel cup 540 and to the toe pad 546.

Now that the assembly of the shoe 505 has been completed, not visible in FIG. 7 are the arch support (item 541 in FIGS. 5A-5B), the heel pad (item 550A in FIGS. 5A-5C), the arch pad (item 550B in FIGS. 5A-5C), the toe pad upper surface (item 552 in FIG. 5A), and the heel shock pad (item 554 in FIGS. 5A, 5C and 6A).

FIG. 8 is a drawing of a top view of the women's ballet flat shoe 505 with the heel cup 540 and the arch support item 541 following completion of manufacture. The shoe 505 again further comprises the upper liner heel support area 535B, the upper liner arch support area 535C, the upper liner toe support area 535D, the topline 537, the toe pad 546, the arch support beveled end 551, and the toe pad beveled end 553. As depicted, the shoe 505 further comprises an optional decorative bow 810.

FIGS. 9A-9C are a set of three drawings of a women's ballet flat shoe 905 with an arch support.

FIG. 9A is a perspective side view drawing of a women's ballet flat shoe 905 with an arch support. The shoe 905 comprises an upper 910, a midsole 920, and an outsole 930. The midsole 920 is to be physically attached to the upper 910. The outsole 930 is to be physically attached to the midsole 920. The shoe 905 comprises a toe end 931 where a user's toe (not shown) is located. The shoe 905 further comprises a heel end 932 where the user's heel (not shown) is located.

The upper 910 comprises a heel curve 933 at the heel end 932 of the shoe 905. The upper 910 further comprises an upper toe 934 at the toe end 931 of the shoe 905. A shape of the upper toe 934 can be adapted based on one or more of a seasonal trend, a style of interest to the user, and a shape of the toe of the user. For example, the toe shape comprises one or more of a pointed toe, a round toe, an oval toe, and another toe shape.

The upper 910 further comprises an upper liner 935A-935D. The upper liner 935A-935D runs continuously around an inner surface of the upper 910. For example, the upper liner 935A-935D comprises molded leather. For example, the upper liner 935A-935D is knit.

Proceeding from right to left, the upper liner 935A-935D comprises an upper liner ankle area 935A, an upper liner arch support area 935B, an upper liner toe support area 935C, and an upper liner front area 935D. The upper liner arch support area 935B is configured to support an arch (not shown) of the user's foot. The upper liner toe support area 935C is configured to support one or more of toes (not shown) and a metatarsal region (not shown) of the foot of the user.

The upper liner ankle area 935A is physically attached to the heel curve 933. Preferably, but not necessarily, the upper liner ankle area 935A is stitched to the heel curve 933. Preferably, but not necessarily, the upper liner ankle area 935A is stitched to the heel curve 933 using one or more of ribbon binding trim, a stitched seam and a seam that is both stitched and folded. The upper liner front area 935D is physically attached to the upper toe 934. Preferably, but not necessarily, the upper liner front area 935D is stitched to the upper toe 934. Preferably, but not necessarily, the upper liner front area 935D is stitched to the upper toe 934 using one or more of ribbon binding trim, a stitched seam and a seam that is both stitched and folded.

The upper 910 further comprises a topline 937 configured to hold a user's foot (not shown) comfortably but securely. The upper 910 further comprises a sock liner 938. For example, one or more of the upper liner arch support area 935B and the upper liner toe support area 935C comprises the sock liner 938. Preferably, but not necessarily, both the upper liner arch support area 935B and the upper liner toe support area 935C comprise the sock liner 938. For example, the one or more of the upper liner arch support area 935B and the upper liner toe support area 935C comprises a pre-molded sock liner 938. Preferably, but not necessarily, both the upper liner arch support area 935B and the upper liner toe support area 935C comprise the pre-molded sock liner 938. The sock liner 938 forms a lower side of the upper 910. For example, the sock liner 938 is stitched to one or more of the upper liner arch support area 935B and the upper liner toe support area 935C. Preferably, but not necessarily, the sock liner 938 is stitched to both the upper liner arch support area 935B and the upper liner toe support area 935C. For example, the sock liner 938 is stitched to the one or more of the upper liner arch support area 935B and the upper liner toe support area 935C using a reverse stitched seam, also known as the Sacchetto construction method. As depicted, the sock liner 938 is stitched to the one or more of the upper liner arch support area 935B and the upper liner toe support area 935C using the Sacchetto construction method.

The upper 910 further comprises a seam 939. The seam 939 runs along a circumference of one or more of the upper liner arch support area 935B and the upper liner toe support area 935C. Preferably, but not necessarily, and as depicted, the seam 939 runs along a circumference of both the upper liner arch support area 935B and the upper liner toe support area 935C. For example, the seam 939 comprises a reversed stitched seam, also known as the Sacchetto construction method.

One or more of the upper liner arch support area 935B and the midsole 920 are configured to ensure a smooth fit on assembly between the upper liner arch support area 935B and the midsole 920. One or more of the upper liner toe support area 935C and the midsole 920 are configured to ensure a smooth fit on assembly between the upper liner toe support area 935C and the midsole 920.

Preferably, but not necessarily, the upper 910 and the midsole 920 are configured to ensure a smooth fit on assembly between the upper 910 and the midsole 920. For example, the upper 910 comprises one or more of leather and a synthetic material. For example, the synthetic material is one or more of pliable and breathable. For example, the synthetic material comprises polyester.

The midsole 920 comprises an arch support 940 configured to support a user's arch (not shown). The midsole 920 further comprises a toe pad 946 configured to support a user's toes (not shown) and portions of the user's feet adjacent to the user's toes (not shown). The arch support 940 comprises an arch pad 950 configured to support a user's arch (not shown). The arch support 940 further comprises an arch support beveled end 951. For example, the toe pad 946 comprises a foam cushion. The toe pad 946 comprises a toe pad upper surface 952. The toe pad 946 further comprises a toe pad beveled end 953. The toe shape can be changed without a need to change a shape of the arch support 940.

One or more of the upper liner arch support area 935B and the sock liner 938 is contoured to match contours of the arch support 940. One or more of the upper liner toe support area 935C and the sock liner 938 is contoured to match contours of the toe pad 946. When the shoe 905 is assembled, the arch support 940 will contact and be fastened to the toe pad 946. Preferably, but not necessarily, when the shoe 905 is assembled, the arch support 940 will be glued to the toe pad 946.

When the shoe 905 is assembled, the arch support 940 will contact and be fastened to the toe pad 946. Preferably, but not necessarily, when the shoe 905 is assembled, the arch support 940 will be glued to the toe pad 946. When the shoe is assembled, the arch support beveled end 951 will contact and be fastened to the toe pad beveled end 953. The arch support beveled end 951 and the toe pad beveled end 953 are constructed so as to fit smoothly together upon assembly of the shoe 905. For example, and as depicted, the arch support beveled end 951 comprises a diagonal bevel that fits smoothly together with a complementary diagonal bevel comprised in the toe pad beveled end 953. Preferably, but not necessarily, when the shoe 905 is assembled, the arch support beveled end 951 will be glued to the toe pad beveled end 953.

When the shoe 905 is assembled, an upper side of the arch pad 950 will contact and be fastened to a lower side of the upper liner arch support area 935B. Preferably, but not necessarily, when the shoe 905 is assembled, the upper side of the arch pad 950 will be glued to the lower side of the upper liner arch support area 935B. When the shoe 905 is assembled, an upper side of the toe pad upper surface 952 also will contact and be fastened to a lower side of the upper liner toe support area 935C. Preferably, but not necessarily, when the shoe 905 is assembled, the upper side of the toe pad upper surface 952 will be glued to the lower side of the upper liner toe support area 935C.

The midsole 920 further comprises a heel shock pad 954. The heel shock pad 954 is attachable to a lower side of the arch support 940. The heel shock pad 954 is configured to safeguard the heel of the user from shocks as the user moves. For example, the heel shock pad 954 comprises foam. When the shoe 905 is assembled, the heel shock pad 954 will contact and be glued to the lower side of the arch support 940.

The outsole 930 comprises an outsole heel 960, an extended outsole heel toplift 965 configured to support the arch support 940, an outsole lower side 967, an outsole toe area 970, and an outsole upper surface 972. One or more of the outsole heel 960 and the arch support 940 are configured to ensure a smooth fit on assembly between the outsole heel 960 and the arch support 940. Preferably, but not necessarily, both the outsole heel 960 and the arch support 940 are configured to ensure a smooth fit on assembly between the outsole heel 960 and the arch support 940. One or more of the outsole toe area 970 and the toe pad 946 are configured to ensure a smooth fit on assembly between of the outsole toe area 970 and the toe pad 946. Preferably, but not necessarily, both the outsole toe area 970 and the toe pad 946 are configured to ensure a smooth fit on assembly between of the outsole toe area 970 and the toe pad 946. When the shoe 905 is assembled, the outsole heel 960 will contact and be fastened to the arch support 940. Preferably, but not necessarily, when the shoe 905 is assembled, the outsole heel 960 will be glued to the arch support 940. When the shoe 905 is assembled, the outsole toe 970 will contact and be fastened to the toe pad 946. Preferably, but not necessarily, when the shoe 905 is assembled, the outsole toe 970 will be glued to the toe pad 946. The outsole 930 comprises one or more of man-made materials and natural materials. For example, the natural materials comprise one or more of leather and rubber.

FIG. 9A further depicts a last 975 usable for constructing the women's ballet flat shoe 905 with the arch support 940. The last 975 comprises a last arch 980 located at an arch position on the last 975, a last bottom 982 located at a bottom position on the last 975, a last heel curve 983 located at an ankle position on the last 975, a last toe 985 locates at a toe position on the last 975, and a last topline edge 990 located along a top edge of the last 975. The last arch 980 is shaped to match contours of the arch support 940 and therefore to mate smoothly with the arch support 940. The last bottom 982 is shaped to match contours of the toe pad 946 and therefore to mate smoothly with the toe pad 946. Preferably, but not necessarily, the last 975 comprises a last design specific to a user's exact foot size. Preferably, but not necessarily, and as depicted, the last arch 980 has a shape comprising an approximate negative imprint of the arch support 940. Accordingly, the upper 910 that is shaped using the last 975 smoothly fits matching contours of the arch support 940, the upper 910 thereby smoothly mating with the arch support 940.

In manufacturing the women's ballet flat shoe 905 with the arch support 940, the last 975 is placed inside the upper 910. The last heel curve 983 contacts and shapes the heel curve 933. Along the same lines, the last toe 985 contacts and shapes the upper toe 934. The upper 910 is pulled over the last 975 and edges of the upper 910 are joined together, forming the topline 937. Preferably, but not necessarily, the edges of the upper 910 are stitched together to form the topline 937.

After the last 975 is placed inside the upper 910, the midsole 920 is physically attached to the upper 910, creating an arch support upper assembly 994. For example, outer edges of the upper 910 are pulled around the midsole 920 and lashed to the midsole 920. For example, the midsole 920 is glued to the upper 910.

FIGS. 9B-9C are a pair of drawings of the arch support 940 usable with a women's ballet flat shoe 905.

FIG. 9B is a perspective side view drawing of the arch support 940. The arch support 940 again comprises the arch pad 950 and the arch support beveled end 951. Also shown again is the heel end 932.

Preferably, but not necessarily, the arch support 940 further comprises a plurality of arch support regions 995, 996 having different hardness measurements. For example, as depicted, the arch support 940 comprises a first arch support region 995 configured comfortably to contact a user's arch (not shown). Accordingly, to enhance soft comfort, the first arch support region 995 comprises a hardness measurement between approximately 55 and approximately 65 on the Shore A hardness scale. For example, as depicted, the arch support 940 further comprises a second arch support region 996 configured to contact the outsole (not shown in FIG. 9B; item 930 in FIG. 9A) and through the outsole (not shown in FIG. 9B; item 930 in FIG. 9A), to contact the earth (not shown). Accordingly, to prevent deformation, the second arch support region 996 comprises a hardness measurement between approximately 80 and approximately 90 on the Shore A hardness scale.

The arch support 940 further comprises an arch support maximum height 997. The arch support 940 further comprises an arch support depth 998. The arch support 940 further comprises an arch support beveled end height 999 at the arch support beveled end 951. For example, the arch support 940 for a United States women's shoe size of 7 comprises an arch support maximum height 997 of approximately 6.0 millimeters (mm). For example, the arch support 940 for a United States women's shoe size of 7 comprises an arch support depth 998 at the arch support beveled end 951 of approximately 10.0 mm. For example, the arch support 940 for a United States women's shoe size of 7 comprises an arch support beveled end 951 at the arch support beveled end height 999 of approximately 1.5 mm. A representative length of the arch support beveled end 951 is approximately 10.0 mm.

Not visible in this figure is the heel shock pad (item 954 in FIGS. 9A, 9C and 10A).

FIG. 9C is a non-perspective drawing showing an end view from the heel end 932 of the arch support 940. The arch support 940 again comprises the arch pad 950, the heel shock pad 954, the first arch support region 995, the second arch support region 996, the arch support heel end height 997, and the arch support depth 998. Not visible in this figure are the arch support beveled end (item 951 in FIGS. 9A-9B and 10A and 11) and the toe pad beveled end (item 953 in FIGS. 9A, 10A and 11).

The last 975 remains in place inside the upper 910 while the upper 910 is joined to the midsole 920 and then also while the midsole 920 is joined to the outsole 930. After the upper 910, the midsole 920, and the outsole 930 have been joined together to form the shoe 905, the last 975 is removed from the upper 910. For clarity, however, FIGS. 10A and 11 show the upper 910 with the last 975 not included so that details of the shoe 905 including details of the upper 910, the midsole 920, and the outsole 930 can more easily be seen.

FIGS. 10A-10B are a set of two drawings of the women's ballet flat shoe 905 with the arch support 940.

FIG. 10A is a perspective side view drawing of a women's ballet flat shoe 905 with the arch support 940. FIG. 10A depicts the women's ballet flat shoe 905 with the arch support 940 after the midsole 920 has been physically attached to the upper 910. The shoe 905 again comprises the arch support upper assembly 994 and the outsole 930. The arch support upper assembly 994 again comprises the upper 910 and the midsole 920. The shoe 905 again comprises the toe end 931. The shoe 905 again further comprises the heel end 932.

The upper 910 again comprises the heel curve 933 at the heel end 932 of the shoe 905. The upper 910 again further comprises the upper toe 934 at the toe end 931 of the shoe 905. The upper 910 again further comprises the upper liner 935A-935D. Proceeding from right to left, the upper liner 935A-935D again comprises the upper liner ankle area 935A, the upper liner arch support area 935B, the upper liner toe support area 935C, and the upper liner front area 935D. The upper liner ankle area 935A is again physically attached to the heel curve 933. The upper liner front area 935D is again physically attached to the upper toe 934. The upper liner 935A-935D again runs continuously around an inner surface of the upper 910.

The midsole 920 again comprises the arch support 940 and the toe pad 946. The toe pad 946 again comprises the toe pad upper surface 952 and the toe pad beveled end 953. The arch support 940 again in turn comprises the arch pad 950 and the arch support beveled end 951. Now that the midsole 920 has been assembled, the arch support beveled end 951 contacts and is fastened to the toe pad beveled end 953, completing assembly of the midsole 920. Preferably, but not necessarily, the arch support beveled end 951 is glued to the toe pad beveled end 953.

Now that the midsole 920 and the upper 910 have been fastened together, the arch support 940 contacts and is fastened to the toe pad 946. Preferably, but not necessarily, the arch support 940 is glued to the toe pad 946. Now that the midsole 920 and the upper 910 have been fastened together, an upper side of the arch pad (item 950 in FIG. 9A; not visible in this figure) contacts and is fastened to a lower side of the upper liner arch support area 935B. Preferably, but not necessarily, the upper side of the arch pad (item 950 in FIG. 9A; not visible in this figure) is glued to the lower side of the upper liner arch support area 935B. Now that the midsole 920 and the upper 910 have been fastened together, an upper side of the toe pad upper surface (item 952 in FIG. 9A; not visible in this figure) contacts and is fastened to a lower side of the upper liner toe support area 935C. Now that the midsole 920 and the upper 910 have been fastened together, the extended outsole heel toplift item 965 is shown in FIG. 10A. Preferably, but not necessarily, the upper side of the toe pad upper surface (item 952 in FIG. 9A; not visible in this figure) is glued to the lower side of the upper liner toe support area 935C.

The midsole 920 again further comprises the heel shock pad 954. The heel shock pad 954 is again attached to the lower side of the arch support 940. Preferably, but not necessarily, the heel shock pad 954 is glued to the lower side of the arch support 940.

The outsole 930 again comprises the outsole heel 960, the extended outsole heel toplift 965, the outsole lower side 967, the outsole toe area 970, and the outsole upper surface 972. The outsole 930 is physically attached to a lower side of the midsole 920, creating the finished shoe 905. For example, the outsole 930 is glued to the lower side of the midsole 920.

FIG. 10B is a bottom view drawing of the outsole 930 of the women's ballet flat shoe with the arch support (item 940 in FIGS. 9A-9C, 10A, 11 and 12. The outsole 930 again comprises the extended heel toplift 965 and the outsole lower side 967.

FIG. 11 is a perspective side view drawing of a women's ballet flat shoe 905 with the arch support 940. FIG. 11 depicts the women's ballet flat shoe 905 with the arch support 940 after the outsole 930 has been physically attached to the midsole 920, completing construction of the shoe 905. The shoe 905 again comprises the arch support upper assembly 994 and the outsole 930. The arch support upper assembly 994 again comprises the upper 910 and the midsole 920. The shoe 905 again comprises the toe end 931. The shoe 905 again further comprises the heel end 932.

The upper 910 again comprises the heel curve 933 at the heel end 932 of the shoe 905. The upper 910 again further comprises the upper toe 934 at the toe end 931 of the shoe 905. The upper 910 again further comprises the upper liner 935A-935D. Proceeding from right to left, the upper liner 935A-935D again comprises the upper liner ankle area 935A, the upper liner arch support area 935B, the upper toe support area 935C, and the upper liner front area 935D. The upper liner ankle area 935A is again physically attached to the heel curve 933. The upper liner front area 935D is again physically attached to the upper toe 934. The upper liner 935A-935D again runs continuously around an inner surface of the upper 910.

The midsole 920 again comprises the arch support 940 and the toe pad 946. The toe pad 946 again comprises the toe pad upper surface 952. The arch support 940 again in turn comprises the arch pad 950. Now that the midsole 920 and the upper 910 have been fastened together, the arch support 940 contacts and is fastened to the toe pad 946. Now that the midsole 920 and the upper 910 have been fastened together, the arch pad 950 contacts and is fastened to the upper liner arch support area 935B. Now that the midsole 920 and the upper 910 have been fastened together, the toe pad upper surface 952 contacts and is fastened to the upper liner arch support area 935B.

The midsole 920 again further comprises the arch support beveled end 951 and the toe pad 953.

The outsole 930 again comprises the outsole heel 960, the extended outsole heel toplift 965 and the outsole toe area 970. Now that the outsole 930 and the midsole 920 have been fastened together, the outsole upper surface (item 972 in FIGS. 9A and 10A; not visible in this figure) contacts and is fastened to the arch pad (item 950 in FIGS. 9A, 9B and 9C; not visible in this figure) and to the toe pad item 946.

Now that the assembly of the shoe 905 has been completed, not visible in FIG. 11 are the arch pad (item 950 in FIGS. 9A, 9B, and 9C; not visible in this figure), the toe pad upper surface (item 952 in FIG. 9A; not visible in this figure) and the heel shock pad (item 954 in FIGS. 9A, 9C and 10A; not visible in this figure).

FIG. 12 is a drawing of a top view of the women's ballet flat shoe 905 with the arch support 940 following completion of manufacture. The shoe 905 again further comprises the upper liner arch support area 935B, the upper liner heel support area 935C, the topline 937, the toe pad 946, the arch support beveled end 951, and the toe pad beveled end 953. As depicted, the shoe 905 further comprises an optional decorative bow 1210.

One advantage offered by embodiments of the invention is that the one or more of an arch support and a heel cup serve to lock up the foot so that the topline is not under pressure while holding the foot. A further advantage of embodiments of the invention is helping to release pressure off the topline. Another advantage of embodiments of the invention is providing a perfect three-dimensional fit without distortion of the topline. A yet further advantage of embodiments of the invention is that the contours of the midsole are configured to create a three-dimensional sock liner. Another advantage provided by embodiments of the invention is a comfortable, precise, glove-like fit. A still further advantage provided by embodiments of the invention is one or more of a cleaner look and better esthetics.

A further advantage provided by embodiments of the invention is providing a specialized last for each foot size and for each of the three embodiments, that is, for the embodiments having only the heel cup without the arch support, for the embodiments having only the arch support without the heel cup, and for the embodiments having both the heel cup and the arch support. A still additional advantage of embodiments of the invention is thereby providing a women's ballet flat shoe configured to match the user's exact foot size.

A still other advantage of embodiments of the invention is providing one or more of an integrated heel cup and an integrated arch support with the needed contours incorporated into the midsole. Another advantage of embodiments of the invention is thereby avoiding a need to add to the women's ballet flat shoe one or more of a separate arch support and a separate heel cup. An additional advantage offered by embodiments of the invention is that accordingly, no one can see that there are orthotics in the ballet flat shoe. A still other advantage of embodiments of the invention is that by using fewer components, a volume of the shoe is reduced. A yet further advantage of embodiments of the invention is that the women's ballet flat shoe achieves a slim silhouette while simultaneously providing full benefit of a built-in foot support system.

Another advantage of embodiments of the invention is avoiding a need for one or more of an inserted contour sock system and an aftermarket insertable foot care product. A further advantage of embodiments of the invention is elimination of additional shoe components that would otherwise be needed. A yet further advantage of embodiments of the invention is that these features serve to keep the women's ballet flat shoe one or more of slim and fit.

A further advantage provide by embodiments of the invention stems from the use by embodiments of the invention of a first heel cup region and a second heel cup region having a different hardness from that of the first heel cup region. Another advantage provide by embodiments of the invention stems from the use by embodiments of the invention of a first arch support region and a second arch support region having a different hardness from that of the first arch support region. Advantages of embodiments of the invention derive from this molded unit having two different hardness measurements, thereby allowing an inside of the molded unit to be contoured and soft to fit comfortably for the one or more of the heel and the arch, while still also providing a molded outside unit to which the upper is glued that is structurally hard so as to keep the shape from deformation. A still other advantage of embodiments of the invention is the provision of two different hardness measurements for different sections of the molded unit, thereby providing both stability and reinforcement to the one or more of the heel and the arch of the shoe while simultaneously providing a degree of one or more of comfort and control to motion of the user's foot.

Another advantage provided by embodiments of the invention is provision of greater foot support for one or more of the arch support and the heel cup.

A still other advantage of embodiments of the invention is providing a user with comfort while simultaneously providing one or more of an arch support and heel cup. A yet further advantage of embodiments of the invention is Integrating high fashion, comfort, and orthotics.

A still other advantage provided by embodiments of the invention is providing a throat line that fits more precisely than with prior art women's ballet flat shoes.

A yet other advantage of embodiments of the invention is providing one or more of an arch support, a heel cup, and a throatline that match each other better than in the prior art. Arch and heel cup and throat line match better using his invention.

A further advantage of embodiments of the invention is providing benefits to the user of the heel cup while simultaneously offering a flexible women's ballet flat shoe that can be folded for one or more of travel and other purposes.

A still further advantage of embodiments of the invention is providing an integrated, seamless, glove-like fit as well as a support system for the user's foot.

Further advantages provided by embodiments of the invention include avoiding one or more disadvantages of the prior art including: (1) gaps between prior art insoles and prior art uppers; (2) a collapse over time of one or more of a heel, a quarter, and a back counter of a prior art women's ballet flat shoe; (3) a bulky esthetic created by the use of additional components in the shoe; and (4) foot slippage caused by foot movement within the shoe.

A further advantage provided by embodiments of the invention is that a toe shape of the women's ballet flat shoe can be changed without a need to change a shape of the midsole. A yet other advantage of embodiments of the invention is a slim toe profile. A still further advantage of embodiments of the invention is providing a women's ballet flat shoe that is one or more of better fitting, comfortably fitting, and beautiful.

While the above representative embodiments have been described with certain components in exemplary configurations, it will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that other representative embodiments can be implemented using different configurations and/or different components. For example, it will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that the order of certain steps and certain components can be altered without substantially impairing the functioning of the invention. It will be further understood by those of skill in the art that the number of variations of embodiments of the invention are virtually limitless. For example, one or more components can be knit. For example, the upper can be knit.

The representative embodiments and disclosed subject matter, which have been described in detail herein, have been presented by way of example and illustration and not by way of limitation. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made in the form and details of the described embodiments resulting in equivalent embodiments that remain within the scope of the invention. It is intended, therefore, that the subject matter in the above description shall be interpreted as illustrative and shall not be interpreted in a limiting sense. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A women's ballet flat shoe, comprising: an upper, a midsole physically connected to the upper, and an insole physically connected to the midsole, the midsole comprising a heel cup, the heel cup thereby being integrated into the shoe, the heel cup configured to comfortably and securely grip a user's heel, wherein the heel cup comprises a first heel cup region having a lower hardness, the first heel cup region configured comfortably to hold the user's heel, wherein the heel cup further comprises a second heel cup region configured to contact the shoe's outsole, the heel cup further comprising a second heel cup region having a higher hardness.
 2. The ballet flat shoe of claim 1, wherein the upper is constructed using a last, the last comprising a last heel that has a shape comprising an approximate negative imprint of the heel cup, so that the upper that is shaped using the last smoothly fits matching contours of the heel cup, the upper thereby smoothly mating with the heel cup.
 3. The ballet flat shoe of claim 2, wherein the last comprises a last design specific to a user's exact foot size.
 4. The ballet flat shoe of claim 1, wherein the first heel cup region comprises a hardness measurement between approximately 55 and approximately 65 on the Shore A hardness scale.
 5. The ballet flat shoe of claim 1, wherein the second heel cup region comprises a hardness measurement between approximately 80 and approximately 90 on the Shore A hardness scale.
 6. The ballet flat shoe of claim 1, wherein the ballet shoe is foldable.
 7. A women's ballet flat shoe, comprising: an upper, a midsole physically connected to the upper, and an insole physically connected to the midsole, the midsole comprising an arch support, the arch support thereby being integrated into the shoe, the arch support configured to comfortably and securely grip a user's heel, wherein the arch support comprises a first arch support region having a lower hardness, the first arch support region configured comfortably to hold the user's heel, wherein the arch support further comprises a second arch support region configured to contact the shoe's outsole, the arch support further comprising a second arch support region having a higher hardness.
 8. The ballet flat shoe of claim 7, wherein the upper is constructed using a last, the last comprising a last arch support that has a shape comprising an approximate negative imprint of the arch support, so that the upper that is shaped using the last smoothly fits matching contours of the arch support, the upper thereby smoothly mating with the arcn support.
 9. The ballet flat shoe of claim 8, wherein the last comprises a last design specific to a user's exact foot size.
 10. The ballet flat shoe of claim 7, wherein the first arch support region comprises a hardness measurement between approximately 55 and approximately 65 on the Shore A hardness scale.
 11. The ballet flat shoe of claim 7, wherein the second arch support region comprises a hardness measurement between approximately 80 and approximately 90 on the Shore A hardness scale.
 12. A women's ballet flat shoe, comprising: an upper, a midsole physically connected to the upper, and an insole physically connected to the midsole, the midsole comprising a heel cup, the heel cup thereby being integrated into the shoe, the heel cup configured to comfortably and securely grip a user's heel, wherein the heel cup comprises a first heel cup region having a lower hardness, the first heel cup region configured comfortably to hold the user's heel, wherein the heel cup further comprises a second heel cup region configured to contact the shoe's outsole, the heel cup further comprising a second heel cup region having a higher hardness, the midsole further comprising an arch support, the arch support thereby being integrated into the shoe, the arch support configured to comfortably and securely grip a user's heel, wherein the arch support comprises a first arch support region having a lower hardness, the first arch support region configured comfortably to hold the user's heel, wherein the arch support further comprises a second arch support region configured to contact the shoe's outsole, the arch support further comprising a second arch support region having a higher hardness.
 13. The ballet flat shoe of claim 12, wherein the upper is constructed using a last, the last comprising a last heel that has a shape comprising an approximate negative imprint of the heel cup, the last further comprising a last arch support that has a shape comprising an approximate negative imprint of the arch support, so that the upper that is shaped using the last smoothly fits matching contours of both the heel cup and the arch support, the upper thereby smoothly mating with both the heel cup and the arch support.
 14. The ballet flat shoe of claim 13, wherein the last comprises a last design specific to a user's exact foot size.
 15. The ballet flat shoe of claim 12, wherein the first heel cup region comprises a hardness measurement between approximately 55 and approximately 65 on the Shore A hardness scale.
 16. The ballet flat shoe of claim 12, wherein the second heel cup region comprises a hardness measurement between approximately 80 and approximately 90 on the Shore A hardness scale.
 17. The ballet flat shoe of claim 12, wherein the first arch support region comprises a hardness measurement between approximately 55 and approximately 65 on the Shore A hardness scale.
 18. The ballet flat shoe of claim 12, wherein the second arch support region comprises a hardness measurement between approximately 80 and approximately 90 on the Shore A hardness scale.
 19. A women's ballet flat shoe, comprising: an upper, a midsole physically connected to the upper, and an insole physically connected to the midsole, the midsole comprising a heel cup, the heel cup thereby being integrated into the shoe, the heel cup configured to comfortably and securely grip a user's heel, wherein the heel cup comprises a first heel cup region having a lower hardness, the first heel cup region configured comfortably to hold the user's heel, wherein the heel cup further comprises a second heel cup region configured to contact the shoe's outsole, the heel cup further comprising a second heel cup region having a higher hardness, wherein the upper is constructed using a last, the last comprising a last heel that has a shape comprising an approximate negative imprint of the heel cup, so that the upper that is shaped using the last smoothly fits matching contours of the heel cup, the upper thereby smoothly mating with the heel cup, wherein the last comprises a last design specific to a user's exact foot size, wherein the first heel cup region comprises a hardness measurement between approximately 55 and approximately 65 on the Shore A hardness scale, wherein the second heel cup region comprises a hardness measurement between approximately 80 and approximately 90 on the Shore A hardness scale, wherein the ballet shoe is foldable.
 20. A women's ballet flat shoe, comprising: an upper, a midsole physically connected to the upper, and an insole physically connected to the midsole, the midsole comprising a heel cup, the heel cup thereby being integrated into the shoe, the heel cup configured to comfortably and securely grip a user's heel, wherein the heel cup comprises a first heel cup region having a lower hardness, the first heel cup region configured comfortably to hold the user's heel, wherein the heel cup further comprises a second heel cup region configured to contact the shoe's outsole, the heel cup further comprising a second heel cup region having a higher hardness, the midsole further comprising an arch support, the arch support thereby being integrated into the shoe, the arch support configured to comfortably and securely grip a user's heel, wherein the arch support comprises a first arch support region having a lower hardness, the first arch support region configured comfortably to hold the user's heel, wherein the arch support further comprises a second arch support region configured to contact the shoe's outsole, the arch support further comprising a second arch support region having a higher hardness, wherein the upper is constructed using a last, the last comprising a last heel that has a shape comprising an approximate negative imprint of the heel cup, the last further comprising a last arch support that has a shape comprising an approximate negative imprint of the arch support, so that the upper that is shaped using the last smoothly fits matching contours of both the heel cup and the arch support, the upper thereby smoothly mating with both the heel cup and the arch support, wherein the last comprises a last design specific to a user's exact foot size, wherein the first heel cup region comprises a hardness measurement between approximately 55 and approximately 65 on the Shore A hardness scale, wherein the second heel cup region comprises a hardness measurement between approximately 80 and approximately 90 on the Shore A hardness scale, wherein the first arch support region comprises a hardness measurement between approximately 55 and approximately 65 on the Shore A hardness scale, wherein the second arch support region comprises a hardness measurement between approximately 80 and approximately 90 on the Shore A hardness scale. 